The Malta Bus Reborn, designed by London and Malta-based architecture firm Mizzi Studio is a finalist in the EU: New European Bauhaus (NEB) Prizes 2024.

In 2019, Mizzi Studio unveiled designs for a new electric bus fleet for Malta, marrying zero-emissions technology with the charm of the iconic traditional Art-Deco Maltese buses. The project’s ethos aimed at reimagining a legacy design, restoring its heritage value and igniting new awareness around climate-resilient transport and net-zero mobility; placing culture and community at the heart of climate action.

The journey of the Malta Bus Reborn project has been multi-phased, beginning with years of extensive research on the history of Malta’s bus fleet – its design iterations, legacy features and their use until decommission. The project’s second phase was the rebirth through new designs that would replace Malta’s existing diesel fleet, whilst emulating their dynamic style. Mizzi Studio's proposal for a fully-electric, emissions-free fleet aligns with the EU's long-term strategy for a climate-neutral future and is designed for Malta's Mediterranean climate with net-zero powered cooling systems.

The third phase, a widespread awareness and engagement campaign, introduced the dream of a new bus to the Maltese public and integrated within the global conversation around transport and industrial design. To bring these ideas into the public imagination, a free exhibition was held in October 2019 at the entrance to Malta’s capital, Valletta. The exhibition showcased detailed steps of the design process, collaborative research and development with the Malta Bus Archive concluding with the final film screening. Throughout 2020 this was displayed at the Renzo Piano Parliament building and is now on permanent display at the Ministry of Transport. The project culminated in a lecture by Jonathan Mizzi on the TEDx University of Malta stage in 2021 with a speculative island-wide multi-modal transport system.

Fostering a sense of connection, the project revived an iconic gem that once held a daily presence across Malta, a unique conservation opportunity and heritage design.

Project Objectives

Mizzi Studio’s research on the Malta Bus Reborn project drew inspiration from its international position, particularly London’s investment in transport heritage via Heatherwick Studio’s re-imagined Routemaster bus. Mizzi aimed to design a new Malta bus, instilling a renewed sense of pride while incorporating climate-driven features aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals. This initiative targets Sustainable Cities and Communities(11), Climate Action(13), Affordable and Clean Energy(7), Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure(9) and contributes to Good Health and Well-Being(3).

In Malta’s economic progress, robust transport infrastructure is crucial, positioning the islands as net zero transport leaders. In recognising the substantial environmental impact of transport on quality of life, investments in transport links across the islands are vital for Malta’s future.

Malta buses have been the lifeblood of the islands’ transport infrastructure for over a century. Although Malta Public Transport has improved services, the 2011 demise of traditional buses resulted in a loss of cultural identity. The former buses were one of Malta’s most recognisable icons, beloved by tourists and locals. A new electric iteration of the classic icon would re-ignite that holistic cultural admiration, fortifying the long-term viability of its investment. Malta’s old buses were untenable pollutants, exacerbating air quality issues. The new Malta bus is a key player in achieving emissions targets, reducing private vehicles, and introducing net zero mobility into Malta’s transport narrative.

Electric buses are increasingly prevalent in European cities. New EU laws mandate that a quarter of buses purchased by European public authorities by 2025 must be climate-conscious, half being zero emission. Mizzi Studio’s proposed bus fleet ensures a positive environmental impact, being fully electric, emission-free, featuring a solar-powered roof and incorporating net zero cooling systems.

Continue reading about this project and click here to participate in the public voting now!

Voting deadline: 27 March 2024

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